Why is my dog tired with red eyes after giving birth to puppies?

Thank you for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach with your question about Lulu. Nursing puppies is tiring, but she should not be really tired. I'm concerned this can be a sign of a postpartum problem. I would take her and her puppies into a vet immediately to get checked out. I hope this helps!

Its reasonable to give er a few days and see if her behavior starts to improve, as long as her appetite is normal, she's not having any vomiting or diarrhea, her breathing is normal, and she will get up and walk to greet you when you call her. If she won't get up on her own, or is she's showing any other symptoms, you need to take her to the vet. If it's just that she's more tired, etc, give her a few days. If its not improving in the next 3 or so days, take her to your vet. Thanks for asking Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach !

Yes, I would be somewhat worried. It is possible there is a retained piece of placenta or puppy (likely non-viable) still inside her. Panting is usually indicative of pain/discomfort. I suggest you take Luna to the vet for an exam. If you take her in, be sure to take the puppies with you.

Thank you for submitting your question regarding ICE. I recommend that she sees her veterinarian. I worry that nursing the pups has placed a huge toll on her body. If this is the case, eclampsia or low blood calcium can result. This can be very serious and requires prompt care. Her veterinarian will be able to diagnose this with a blood sample. I hope this information helps!

From the sign you are describing it is quite difficult to determine the underlying problem. General signs of lethargy could be commonly due to high temperature which may be related to an infection. In puppies gastrointestinal and urinary tract infections are by far the most common type of infections. If the signs do not resolve in the next 24hours or if Luna is showing any inappetence, more evident lethargy or any other signs (vomiting and diarrhoea for example) I would strongly advice a veterinary check up.

She may have an infection in her uterus or a retained placenta that is making her feel bad. It is best to get her checked as this may cause her to be sick and not take care of the puppies. You can start supplementing the puppies with mills replacer if she is not sitting long enough and make sure they stay warm if she is not staying with them

Poor Luna! She may benefit from intravenous fluids. Have you veterinarian check some bloodwork to see if her liver or kidneys were affected. You may also ask your veterinarian if pain medication would be beneficial. Without being able to examine Luna myself, it's difficult to know how best to advise you. I hope she recovers quickly and please feel free to post any additional questions.